By Cpl. Jack Nash
PIO OCSO
OKEECHOBEE — Detention Captain Scott Deloney and Criminal Investigations Lieutenant Chris Hans brought back more than just a certificate when they recently graduated from the Florida Sheriff's Association's 2022 Commanders Academy.
Lt. Hans reflected, saying, "being able to hear an array of Sheriffs from all over Florida, sharing intimate stories and experiences of their leadership wins and, more importantly, how they couped with failures, was a rare opportunity. Having that much knowledge passed on to us was a fantastic opportunity that I appreciated and learned from."
Lt. Hans recently came up with a mural than was placed in the hallway of the administration office containing the lineage of sheriffs since the first in 1917.
"The 'Sheriff's Code of Ethics' and the 'Oath of Office' adorn the mural's top corners as a reminder of "our promise to citizens and the badge we wear with pride, dignity, integrity, and heroism," concluded Lt. Hans.
Capt. Scott Deloney explained that his most significant "take" from the Commanders Academy was that he learned different perspectives and innovative ways of development, management, and leadership from other administrators throughout the classes.
Although agencies differ in size and needs, "Many times detention is not something one remembers when speaking about law enforcement, but the care, safety, and custody of these individuals are as, if not more important than other aspects of the criminal justice system."
Captain Deloney wanted a reminder for our detention deputies that their jobs, although often not highlighted by the press, are a valued resource within the criminal justice community and that our Okeechobee community and administration appreciate their hard work and dedication.
Capt. Deloney placed his mural at the inside main entrance to the detention facility, where everyone coming and going has a moment to stop, read and reflect upon the words written.
The mural is that of the O.C.S.O. seal subdued in the background and a quote from Pres. Ronald Reagan that in part, reads, "No group of Americans has a more difficult or less publicly visible job than the brave men and women who work in our correctional facilities."
These murals are more than "wall art." They remind us of our heritage and our commitment to our fellow citizens of Okeechobee.
OCSO leadership strives to acknowledge the hard work and successes that the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office family regularly produces through community partnerships and strong leadership values.
